Many roofing systems are adversely affected by ponded water, causing issues such as roof sagging, drainage issues and build-up of silt on the roof surface. However, Mastic asphalt is one of the very few roofing systems that can withstand water sitting on it and not be affected by it. This can be demonstrated by the fact that in years gone by, mastic asphalt was actually used to waterproof dew ponds.

An award-winning project carried out by Oxley Asphalte Roofing Services demonstrates the true waterproofing properties of mastic asphalt. It was actually used to waterproof a derelict pond at Bevendean Primary School and Nursery in Brighton.

The school has large, green open spaces and the pond had been a tranquil and rich source of learning for many students over the years but had deteriorated and was no longer in use. When Oxley Asphalte heard the school were fundraising to help refurbish and waterproof the pond, they stepped up to help alongside IKO.

Mastic-asphalt-pond-waterproofing-2The Oxley Asphalte team helped out the school by applying mastic asphalt free of charge to the pond over the summer break. Mastic asphalt helped to waterproof the pond and has given it a new lease of life for many years. The school children are now enjoying this rejuvenated space and it has once again become a source of learning about nature.

Jack Oxley, Director at Oxley Asphalte Roofing Services said: “I was originally asked by the school to provide a costing to waterproof the pond, but when I heard they were carrying out fundraising to enable the work to be completed, I offered to do it for free. Mastic asphalt is such a versatile product ideal for waterproofing many surfaces, so it’s ideal for this job.  The pond is an important part of the school and I’m delighted we’ve been able to rejuvenate it.”

The Mastic Asphalt Council (MAC) was so impressed with this project that it won the Small Works Project of the Year at the MAC Awards 2024 which recognised projects of excellence across the mastic asphalt sector.

This article featured within the November / December 2024 edition of Roofing Today magazine – click here to view the article.